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Robocalls

USTelecom member companies are committed to working with consumers to stop the proliferation of robocalls made to consumers in violation of the Telephone Consumer Protection Act. Our industry continues to work collectively with private and government stakeholders to combat this growing problem, in particular the illegal calls that use fake or “spoofed” phone numbers.

What is a Robocall?

A robocall is an automatic, computer-generated phone call made to your phone number (mobile or landline) from a solicitor. Illegal robocalls range from dangerous phishing scams, to unsolicited (and annoying) sales calls. But keep in mind that some robocalls are legal, and can include important doctor appointment reminders, surveys, school closing announcements and political campaign calls.

Background

The Telephone Consumer Protection Act of 1991 (TCPA) placed restrictions on automatic dialers, fax machines, and unsolicited automated calls to protect the privacy and public safety interests of telephone subscribers.

Spoofing Challenges

Today, illegal robocalls can be quickly set up and are increasingly difficult to police due to new, easily acquired technologies. With the costs of long-distance service dramatically reduced, and mass-calling technology making thousands (even millions) of calls with global range (many originate from overseas), illegal scammers are working hard to avoid detection. Spoofing technologies allow scammers to disguise the origin of a phone call, making it can easily appear as though a legitimate caller is dialing your number like a neighbor or even the IRS. It is hard to detect these disguised calls since many call-blocking technologies heavily rely upon the use of caller-ID information as the primary source of categorizing incoming calls.

Solving the Issue

USTelecom members offer a number of call-blocking solutions for their customers, and are deploying the advanced networks that make many third-party solutions possible. Technological tools that force anonymous or out-of-area callers to identify themselves before a call is completed are one example of ways to combat the problem. Work is ongoing in industry forums to develop even better solutions to stay ahead of the many sophisticated ways criminals manipulate calling services to harass the public.

Strong enforcement against illegal robocallers is critical, and we will continue to work closely with the Federal Communications Commission, the Federal Trade Commission and federal and state prosecutors to identify and shut down these illegal calling operations.

How Should I Handle Robocalls/Phone Scams?

Robocalls can be quite bothersome, invasive and deceitful. To help with this, we have provided a list of Do’s and Don’ts for dealing with robocalls, along with a sampling of tools you can use to block such calls. Keep in mind, the type of voice service you subscribe to, such as a wireless provider or through your local cable company, will dictate the types of robocall blocking tools available to you. Caregivers and elders should be especially alert to robocalls offering “free” services or cash prizes since these are almost always pushed by criminals who are relentless, abusive and dangers.